Nursing Schools and Licensing Requirements in Utah

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According to the American Association of Colleges of Nursing, there are approximately 26,000 registered nurses in the state of Utah, with nearly 1,700 working as advanced practice registered nurses. Multiple employment projections from AACN, Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce, and the Department of Labor all point to the same conclusion: more nursing positions are needed and expected to be created throughout the state. Individuals interested in joining the profession can choose from a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs offered by nursing schools in Utah. Discover available programs, learn about licensing requirements, and review occupational outlooks for nurses in Utah.

Locate the Right Utah Nursing School

AACN reports nursing schools in Utah produced 4,107 graduates across all nursing education levels. An additional 347 students were studying to become advanced practice nurses in the state. Aspiring registered nurses who want to work and practice in the state of Utah can use the following search tool to browse through academic options.

Utah Licensing Info

The Utah State Board of Nursing is part of the state’s Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing. It manages the licensing requirements and for both registered nurses and advanced practice registered nurses. Review the following section to learn about what it takes to be fully licensed in the state.

License Eligibility

Graduate from a state-approved, accredited nursing education program

Submit online application to the Board of Nursing along with a $100 processing fee

Submit fingerprints for a criminal background check

Provide official education transcripts, including a school seal and information about the completed degree and date of graduation

Register for National Council Licensure Examination with Pearson VUE and pay a $200 testing fee during the final semester

Wait for an Authorization to Test and then schedule the examination

Utah’s Renewal Process

Registered nursing licenses in Utah expire on January 31 of every odd-numbered year. It’s important to note the renewal period is not tied to the applicant’s date of licensing or their birthday, as it is in many other states. In order to renew a license, nurses must complete one of the following continuing education or work requirements:

400 hours of licensed practice during the past two years

200 hours of licensed practice and an additional 15 hours of approved continuing education credits during the past two years

Individuals not licensed as registered nurses in Utah must submit official verification of a nursing license from their state of residence

Individuals whose specialization includes the administration of controlled substances must apply for a Utah Controlled Substance License. The process includes an application form, additional fee of $100, and a controlled substance affidavit. APRNs working in mental health must also complete at least 3,000 hours of post-certification clinical practice to be eligible for licensure.

UT RNs: Employment and Career Outlook

According to the Center on Education and Workforce, Utah is projected to be the national leader in terms of employment growth across the health care industry. Of the state’s projected 47,000 job openings between 2010 and 2020, 28 percent are expected to be in the field of nursing. The state is experiencing an uptick in career opportunities not only for registered nurses, but also for advanced practice nurses. Data from the Utah Medical Education Council found that the number of active advanced practice registered nurses increased by 52.4 percent between 2003 and 2013. The following statistics offer a closer look at the occupational outlook and career earnings for nursing jobs in Utah.

UACH is a state-based affiliate for the Future of Nursing Campaign for Action. Comprised of numerous healthcare stakeholders, including the Utah Organization of Nurse Leaders and the Utah Department of Health, the UACH has launched numerous initiatives to improve access to nursing education for students and create leadership opportunities for practicing nurses.

The Utah Nurses Association is a professional organization for registered nurses in the state. A membership-based association, the UNA acts on behalf of nurses on public policy and legislative issues, offers continuing education and licensure renewal programs, hosts conferences, and provides a career center for members.

Utah Organization of Nurse Leaders UONL is an affiliate of the American Organization of Nurse Executives. The organization offers membership to nurses in health care management, administration or operations, including individuals currently enrolled in a graduate program of nursing. The organization also offers workforce development initiatives, health policy advocacy and nursing leadership programs.